How to Transfer Malwarebytes to a New Computer?

Upgrading to a new PC is exciting—but moving your security software correctly is just as important. If you’re using Malwarebytes, you’ll want to transfer your subscription safely so your new system stays protected.

The good news: you don’t actually “move” Malwarebytes like a file. Instead, you deactivate it on the old computer and reinstall it on the new one using your license. This guide walks you through the process step by step.

What You Need Before You Start

Before transferring Malwarebytes, make sure you have:

Your Malwarebytes account login
Your license key or subscription details
A stable internet connection
Access to both old and new computers (if possible)

Having these ready will make the process smooth and quick.

Step 1: Deactivate Malwarebytes on the Old Computer

If you still have access to your old device, start here:

Open Malwarebytes
Click on Settings
Go to the Account or Subscription tab
Click Deactivate License

This step frees up your license so you can use it on your new computer.

Tip: If you no longer have access to your old PC, you can deactivate devices from your online account.

Step 2: Uninstall Malwarebytes (Optional but Recommended)

After deactivating:

Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features
Find Malwarebytes
Click Uninstall

This step is optional but helps keep your old system clean and prevents license conflicts.

Step 3: Download Malwarebytes on the New Computer

Now switch to your new PC:

Open a web browser
Visit the official Malwarebytes website
Click Download

Always download from the official source to avoid security risks.

Step 4: Install Malwarebytes

Once downloaded:

Open the setup file (usually MBSetup.exe)
Click Yes if prompted
Follow the on-screen instructions
Click Install

The installation process usually takes a few minutes.

Step 5: Activate Your License

After installation:

Open Malwarebytes
Click Activate License
Enter your license key or sign in to your account

Once activated, your premium features will be restored on the new computer.

Step 6: Update and Run a Scan

To ensure everything is working properly:

Click Check for Updates
Run a full system scan

This confirms your new system is protected and malware-free.

What If You Don’t Have Your License Key?

If you lost your license details:

Check your email for the purchase confirmation
Log in to your Malwarebytes account
Retrieve your license information

If needed, you can contact Malwarebytes support for help.

Common Issues and Fixes

Here are some problems users face when transferring Malwarebytes—and how to fix them:

License Already in Use

Fix:

Deactivate the old device
Or remove devices from your account dashboard

Activation Fails

Fix:

Double-check your license key
Ensure you’re connected to the internet
Restart the application

Download or Installation Error

Fix:

Re-download the installer
Run as Administrator
Temporarily disable antivirus software

Account Login Issues

Fix:

Reset your password
Use the correct registered email

Can You Transfer Malwarebytes Without Deactivating?

Technically, yes—but it may cause issues if your license has device limits. Most subscriptions allow a certain number of devices, so it’s best to deactivate unused ones first.

How Many Devices Can You Use?

This depends on your subscription plan:

Single-device license: One computer
Multi-device license: Multiple computers

Check your plan details to avoid activation errors.

Tips for a Smooth Transfer

To make the process easier:

Keep your license key saved securely
Always deactivate before switching devices
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes
Keep your software updated

Why Transferring Malwarebytes Matters

Properly transferring your Malwarebytes ensures:

Continuous protection on your new device
No license conflicts
Full access to premium features
Secure and malware-free system

Skipping steps can lead to activation issues or reduced protection.

Final Thoughts

Transferring Malwarebytes to a new computer is a simple process when done correctly. Instead of copying files, you deactivate your license on the old device and activate it on the new one. This ensures your subscription remains valid and your system stays protected.

By following the steps in this guide—deactivating, reinstalling, and reactivating—you can move your security software without any hassle. Once completed, your new computer will be fully protected and ready for safe use.